Obstacles and Opportunities in International Engineering Services

摘要

In light of the growing importance of engineering design construction and pro- curement services in international trade, this paper analyzes obstacles faced by U. S. firms in such trade, as well as the opportunities for trade expansion within the framework of recent rules to liberalize trade in services. The impact of market-oriented reforms in developing countries is also examined. Regulatory obstacles pertain to recognition of local qualification, type of business entity, advertising, and fee setting, while other obstacles are competition from local firms, differences in technical standards, and complexities of operating in multicultural systems.